Thanksgiving Driving and Drinks Don’t Mix

When you get together with friends and family this Thanksgiving, be grateful for your friendships, all the wonderful aspects of your life, and the delicious food! Enjoy the holiday — but don’t be a turkey!

With more Americans on the road this Thanksgiving holiday, federal officials will be reminding the public of the dangers of mixing drinks and driving. In addition, bar and restaurant staff will be keeping an eye out for individuals who have had too many drinks and plan to drive.

Thanksgiving + Alcohol = Danger

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), Thanksgiving is the deadliest holiday of the year. Beginning the Wednesday night before Thanksgiving through the Thursday evening of Thanksgiving, Americans are involved in more fatal alcohol-involved vehicle crashes than any other 24 hour period.

Since driving under the influence is so dangerous, Florida has strict penalties for drinking and driving. Driving under the influence (DUI) is defined as driving a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content ratio (BAC) of 0.08%. Individuals under 21 years old will be charged with a DUI if their BAC is equal to or over 0.02%. For commercial drivers, a BAC equal to or over 0.04% will result in a conviction.

The Penalties for DUI

The consequences of an arrest for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Florida may include hefty fines, suspension, or revocation of a driver’s license, probation, mandatory community service, manadatory training programs, vehicle impoundment, ignition interlock device (IID), and jail time. For first time offenders, penalties can include up to $2000 in fines and up to six months in jail.

Multiple DUI arrests can result in penalties including up to five years in jail. Injuries, death, or property damage related to the DUI are evaluated separately and include severe penalties. For more details, click here to visit Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV.)

Plan Early

Don’t even think about drinking and driving! Plan ahead and follow these tips!

Since 1990, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. has provided reputable legal representation to people throughout the state of Florida. The firm has helped thousands of individuals recover compensation from motor vehicle and boating accidents, slip and fall accidents, product defect and liability cases, pharmacy errors, and negligent security cases to cover medical expenses, pay bills, take care of their families, and return to work. Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help you get the relief you need to start living your life again after a serious injury. For a free and confidential consultation, contact Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., at (954) 428-9333.